ISO: Money-Saving Home Hacks

Gareth Branwyn is a freelance writer and the former Editorial Director of Maker Media. He is the author or editor of over a dozen books on technology, DIY, and geek culture. He is currently a contributor to Boing Boing, Wink Books, and Wink Fun. And he has a new best-of writing collection and “lazy man’s memoir,” called Borg Like Me.

Gareth Branwyn is a freelance writer and the former Editorial Director of Maker Media. He is the author or editor of over a dozen books on technology, DIY, and geek culture. He is currently a contributor to Boing Boing, Wink Books, and Wink Fun. And he has a new best-of writing collection and “lazy man’s memoir,” called Borg Like Me.

I’m putting together a piece for MAKE on money-saving home hacks/projects. The idea here is to assemble a collection of maker projects that can save real money, either in the short term or over the long haul. I’m looking for unique maker projects here, not just quick tips, repairs, or common things like “Do an energy audit and add more insulation.” I’m looking for things like home energy monitoring/control systems/home automation, resource management projects, in-kitchen food gardens, etc. These should be proven projects that save significant dough. Any ideas? Please share and you might see your suggested project end up in MAKE! (And you’ll get credit for your contribution.)

And while it’s perfectly OK to think out loud here and brainstorm ideas, I’m looking for existing projects with a track record for the article. Include project links in your comments.

Gareth Branwyn is a freelance writer and the former Editorial Director of Maker Media. He is the author or editor of over a dozen books on technology, DIY, and geek culture. He is currently a contributor to Boing Boing, Wink Books, and Wink Fun. And he has a new best-of writing collection and “lazy man’s memoir,” called Borg Like Me.

Gareth Branwyn is a freelance writer and the former Editorial Director of Maker Media. He is the author or editor of over a dozen books on technology, DIY, and geek culture. He is currently a contributor to Boing Boing, Wink Books, and Wink Fun. And he has a new best-of writing collection and “lazy man’s memoir,” called Borg Like Me.